January 6, 2015
2015! Here we go! TOMMY rehearsals have gained and progressed to this morning’s first run-through for the designers. The swift process, about 14 days, and yes, through the holidays, is a testament to the talent and dedication of this cast and production team. Piece by piece, number by number, scene by scene, we have forged a life for this story together. I’m nervous/excited, to see the show be performed for the first time as complete as it can be in our rehearsal hall. The only flaws I’m expecting are my own. But I’m ready to see what I can make better, clearer, stronger, more deeply felt. To have a cast with this light in their eyes, singing from their hearts, and dancing with such power gives me all the confidence I need to know we are going to rock this show this morning! So, I’ve got to keep this short and sweet, dear reader.
TOMMY’s first preview performance is a week from tomorrow. What! Yes! Our technical crews have been loading in the TOMMY set, built right here in Aurora, since midnight Sunday night after the phenomenal run of MARY POPPINS came to an end. The beauty of that production will never be forgotten by the largest number of audiences in Paramount’s 84 year history. And here we are halfway through our fourth season, just three and half years old, about to present the rarely produced rock opera, The Who’s TOMMY! Take this adventure with us. You will not believe the magnificent moments of this classic rock score, a stunning lighting design by Greg Hofmann and projection design by Mike Tutaj (had a great meeting with them last night after rehearsal!). Brock Clawson’s thrilling contemporary, visceral choreography and Linda Buchanan’s set, a fantastic imagining of a rock ‘n roll universe! There is so much to see come together in the next few days as we leave the rehearsal room and move everything onto the Paramount stage! Keep a good thought! Rock on!
Love and thanks,
Jim
